Saudi Arabia’s women’s and men’s football teams are leaving their mark on the global stage, and their recent partnership with adidas is a testament to the same – even young athlete Farah Jefry agrees.
Last month, they announced the official launch of their home and away jerseys, and trust us when we say that they’re *so* cool (!!)
Made with palm tree-inspired designs with a green colour scheme to signify the country’s growth, vitality, and prosperity; the kits were advertised in the goosebumps-inducing ‘Weaved as One‘ campaign starring player Farah Jefry.
Via @farah_jefry on Instagram
This women’s team member has had football as a part of her life ever since she was little and as in-person witnessed the glory of Saudi’s win against Argentina in the recent World Cup. Below, in our interview, she talks us through it all.
Scroll below to read our conversation with Farah Jefry about her love for football, and her experiences as a sportswoman…
Cosmo Middle East: How did you start playing football? And why?
Farah Jefry: My passion for football was instilled in me from a young age due to my upbringing. Living with my cousins meant that playing football was a regular occurrence and part of our daily routine. My father, who is a big football fan, also played a significant role in cultivating my interest in the sport.
Watching games with him as a child was a thrilling experience, and I was captivated by the player’s skills and the excitement of the matches.
Photographed by Aqib Anwar
Football then quickly became an integral part of my life, and I couldn’t imagine a day without it. I joined my first official club Jeddah Eagles when I was 15 years old, but my love for the sport began much earlier.
C: What was your reaction to the Saudi’s team 2-1 win against Argentina in the World Cup?
Farah Jefry: Being present in Lusail stadium to witness the Saudi National team’s 2-1 win against Argentina was an unforgettable experience for me. The pure happiness and joy that I felt were indescribable, and my body was filled with goosebumps when Saudi scored the second goal.
C: Which famous footballer would you say is your inspiration?
Farah Jefry: Lionel Messi has always been my biggest inspiration as I grew up watching him play. Like many others, I was in awe of his extraordinary skills and his ability to single-handedly change the outcome of a match. Messi’s dedication, hard work, and passion for the game are qualities that I aspire to emulate in my own football journey.
He has set the bar high for players everywhere, and I believe that watching him play has helped me become a better player myself.
C: What does it feel like to be a Saudi football player at the moment following the national team’s popularity in the World Cup?
Farah Jefry: Since the World Cup, we have witnessed a significant increase in the attention and resources devoted to developing football in Saudi Arabia. This has motivated me to push myself even harder. I have noticed a positive shift in how football is perceived in Saudi Arabia.
There is a growth of resources and accessibility toward developing football, and it feels empowering to be a part of this change. I am also fortunate to be an ambassador for adidas which is closely working with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation to invest in the development of women’s football across the Kingdom, from the grassroots up, with the aim of creating an equal playing field for all.
C: Have you ever dealt with hardships as a female footballer? If so, what are they?
Farah Jefry: As any female athlete, I have encountered several challenges on my journey as a female football player. One of the most significant obstacles was the difficulty in finding a team with adequate facilities to train effectively. In addition, I have faced discrimination from individuals who believe that football is exclusively a men’s sport.
However, I’m delighted to be affiliated with such a prestigious brand like adidas, to transform the narrative and promote football and sports among the younger female generation. The brand demonstrates unwavering support for women of diverse backgrounds and identities, which is of utmost significance to me. Together, I am confident that the future generation will be inspired to pursue their football aspirations in the years to come.
It was a privilege to take part in adidas’ ‘Weaved as One’ campaign, which pays homage to the fabric of Saudi culture while simultaneously highlighting themes of unity within football communities and beyond.
‘Weaved As One’ is a great example of how sports and culture can bring people together. Personally, it was an honour to go on a journey and visit a local community where women are making waves at the forefront of motorsports and rally racing, giving the opportunity to this community to be among the first to wear the jersey as a symbol of togetherness.
